Geological investigations and topographical surveying of the head of the Beardmore Glacier area

The stratigraphy of the Buckley Coal Measures and Shackleton Limestone outcrops was investigated and a theodolite surveys of the head of the Beardmore Glacier area was completed. The area mapped consists of three small nunataks on the edge of the south polar plateau at the head of the Beardmore Glacier. In addition, several other small rock outcrops were also mapped. Each island was circumnavigated and traversed and all major outcrops visited. Five detailed stratigraphic sections were measured and an extensive collection of fossil plants and rocks were made including Permian vegetation remains, Shackleton limestone with Archaecyathinae specimens, Glossopteris fossils and Buckley Beacon sandstone and the age positioning of limestone reported by Shackletons party was investigated. Survey equipment was used to establish a baseline and by intersection, determine the position of all the major features. The specific areas visited include Mt Darwin, Darwin Nunatak, Buckley Island Plateau, Mt Bowers, Mt Buckley, Brighton Rock and Mt Bartlett.